New Delhi, February 8: Shiv Sena (UBT) Rajya Sabha member Priyanka Chaturvedi has sharply criticized the central government regarding the India-US trade agreement. She labeled the agreement as “unequal and unjust,” asserting that it is not a fair deal but rather an order imposed by the United States, which India has accepted.
Chaturvedi accused the central government of succumbing to external pressures and compromising national interests by signing this agreement.
She pointed out that former U.S. President Donald Trump had stated that the 25% digital tariff was lifted only after India assured it would not purchase oil from Russia. If India attempts to buy oil from Russia, directly or indirectly, this tariff could be reinstated. She questioned whether this agreement aligns with India’s independent foreign and trade policy.
Chaturvedi further emphasized that the credibility of any country’s policies is built over decades. India’s reputation has been established over the last 70 years and beyond. She noted that India has never attacked another country and has always responded appropriately to aggression.
Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, she highlighted that when the world was in crisis, India demonstrated its policy credibility by sending vaccines, particularly to countries in the Global South. On international platforms like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization, India has consistently advocated for free, fair, and reliable trade.
Additionally, Priyanka Chaturvedi addressed a tragic incident in Delhi where a motorcyclist died after falling into a pothole. She criticized the government for failing to provide basic infrastructure, such as safe and well-maintained roads.
She recalled a similar incident in Noida, where another individual lost their life due to a pothole, both occurring under the BJP government. She questioned who would take responsibility for these deaths and when the government would prioritize public safety.